UK Seas

Discover the wonderful sea creatures that inhabit the UK seas and shores

UK seas is a guide to the fauna and flora found around UK coasts. While the majority of species are marine, some species are included that are regularly encountered on land by the coast, so you’ll find descriptions of non-marine species such as reptiles, amphibians, insects and plants as well.

Oystercatcher

Haematopus ostralegus

Type

Birds

Description

Unmistakable, almost as recognisable as a puffin or magpie, with a bright red sausage of a bill, and black and white plumage.

Incredibly noisy in flight, its piercing calls can be heard through the strongest winds and wildest waves.

Location

All coasts, often on the move in short bursts from one place to the next.

Habitat

Rocky shore, Onland, Mudflats